A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Athens vs. Playa del Carmen for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Athens or Playa del Carmen?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Athens and Playa del Carmen. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Athens

Athens is a vibrant, energetic, and historic city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Athens offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Athens travel costs.

Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is a picture-perfect, scenic, and stunning town. With stunning beauty, Playa del Carmen attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food. See Playa del Carmen travel costs.

Athens and Playa del Carmen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Athens or Playa del Carmen?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Athens than Playa del Carmen. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Athens is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, and big city activities, while Playa del Carmen attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Playa del Carmen is more touristy than Athens and is popular for its coral reefs, luxury resorts, and white sand beaches. Athens is famous for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. It is also well known for The Acropolis.

The Acropolis

How is Athens different from Playa del Carmen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Playa del Carmen and Athens. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Athens or Playa del Carmen?

Athens is an amazing city to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Playa del Carmen is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Athens on the map. As a historical capital of the world, this city has countless museums and archeological sites including the famous Acropolis, the National Archaeology Museum, and the Ancient Agora.

While most people don't head to Playa del Carmen specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. If you're willing to head out of town, there are world class Mayan ruins not far away, but if you want to hang out near town, then you'll likely spend most of your time enjoying outdoor water activities.

Is the Food Better in Athens or Playa del Carmen? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Athens is an amazing city to visit for its restaurant scene. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Athens is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Playa del Carmen. You'll find a good number of overpriced tourist restaurants in the area, but if you do some research you'll also find amazing and authentic Mexican food as well. There is everything from food trucks to fine dining that offer ceviche, tacos, or burritos. There are also plenty of places to grab pizza or burgers.

Is Athens or Playa del Carmen Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is amazing in both Athens and Playa del Carmen.

The nightlife in Athens is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

Playa del Carmen is a world class party destination. It rivals some of the country's best nightlife and you'll find plenty of venues to choose from, ranging from dive bars to swanky cocktail lounges. Head to the main walking street for some of the most active venues.

Is Athens or Playa del Carmen Better for Resorts?

Playa del Carmen is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Athens is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Playa del Carmen for its luxury resorts. You'll find a huge number of luxury resorts in the area, particularly along the beach. There are fancy pools and beachfront properties that offer the perfect vacation retreat.

Athens is not a resort destination.

Is Athens or Playa del Carmen Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Playa del Carmen is an unbeatable place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Athens is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Playa del Carmen. There's not a lot to see right off of the beach, but there are plenty of snorkeling excursions in the area that take you to beautiful reefs. The diving is world class as well and you'll find wonderful reefs, bull sharks, and hidden gems.

Athens is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Athens or Playa del Carmen Better for Beaches?

Playa del Carmen is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Athens is not a beach destination.

Playa del Carmen offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The area is filled with world class beaches, long stretches of white sand, and beautiful blue water. You might even stumble across a sea turtle or two while you're swimming.

Athens is not a beach destination.

Is Athens or Playa del Carmen Better for its Old Town?

Athens is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Playa del Carmen does not have a historic old town.

Athens offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The city's "historic triangle" is between Syntagma, Omonia, and Monastiraki Squares. This area is also at the political and financial heart of the city.

Playa del Carmen does not have a historic old town.

Is Athens or Playa del Carmen Better for Hiking?

Playa del Carmen is a good destination for hiking. However, Athens is not a hiking destination.

Playa del Carmen offers some nice hiking trails. There are well marked trails in the area that get you out in nature or take you along the coastline.

Athens is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Playa del Carmen?

If you're looking to go shopping, Athens and Playa del Carmen both offer plenty of nice spots.

Athens has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

Playa del Carmen is a great destination for shopping. Much of the shopping is geared towards the tourists, but you'll find some local items, interesting galleries, and colorful markets to explore.

Is Athens or Playa del Carmen More Beautiful?

Playa del Carmen is great for its scenery and beauty. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its scenery and beauty.

With stunning beauty, Playa del Carmen attracts visitors from all around. From beautiful beaches to inland jungles, this is a truly stunning destination.

Athens is a gorgeous place to visit. With it's stunning archaeological sites, Athens is most beautiful at night, when things light up.

Is Athens or Playa del Carmen Better for Families?

Playa del Carmen is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Playa del Carmen is very family-friendly. From eco parks to kid-friendly snorkeling opportunities, there are many activities for kids of all ages. There are also adventure parks and playgrounds that are perfect for a fun afternoon.

Athens is a very family-friendly place to visit. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.

Is Athens or Playa del Carmen Better for Couples?

Playa del Carmen is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Playa del Carmen is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Beautiful beaches and tropical jungles make this a paradise honeymoon destination. You'll find luxury resorts, fine dining restaurants, and countless opportunities to enjoy the stunning setting. Take a sunset cruise of explore one of the many natural wonders in the area.

Athens is a nice destination for couples. The city is historical, fascinating, and romantic, making it a beautiful place to explore as a couple.

Is Athens or Playa del Carmen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Athens is an amazing city to visit for backpackers. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Athens is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

Playa del Carmen is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's filled with tourists staying at luxury resorts, but you'll also find a couple of hostels tucked away in town. If you're interesting in scuba diving, then it's well worth the trip.

Is Athens or Playa del Carmen Better for Students?

Athens is a great destination for students. However, Playa del Carmen is not popular with students.

Athens is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

Playa del Carmen is not popular with students.

Is Athens or Playa del Carmen Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Athens is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Athens offers a very effecient public transportation network. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

While Playa del Carmen offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local buses, collectivos and the ADO bus.

Is Athens or Playa del Carmen a more walkable city?

Playa del Carmen is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Playa del Carmen is a very easy town to get around on foot. It's a compact and very walkable town. La Quinta is the main strip and it's pedestrian-only.

Athens is very walkable. You'll find the city's most walkable area's in the historical heart, where there are many pedestrian only streets and shopping areas.

For even more information, also check out Is Athens Worth Visiting? and Is Playa del Carmen Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Playa del Carmen or Athens?

How long in Athens or Playa del Carmen?

Both Athens and Playa del Carmen have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Playa del Carmen has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Playa del Carmen than Athens. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Playa del Carmen than Athens. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Playa del Carmen, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Playa del Carmen than Athens. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Playa del Carmen that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Athens than Playa del Carmen if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Athens.

One day in Athens or Playa del Carmen?

People visit Athens because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Playa del Carmen. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Athens or Playa del Carmen?

People visit Athens because there is so much to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Playa del Carmen is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Athens or Playa del Carmen?

Athens is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Playa del Carmen. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Athens or Playa del Carmen?

Athens is a great place to explore. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It is common to spend one week here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the vibrant destination of Playa del Carmen. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece, The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Athens and Playa del Carmen, we can see that Athens is more expensive. And not only is Playa del Carmen much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Athens is in Europe and Playa del Carmen is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Playa del Carmen would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Playa del Carmen and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Athens would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Athens than you might in Playa del Carmen.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Athens Expensive? and Is Playa del Carmen Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Athens or Playa del Carmen?

Athens has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Playa del Carmen. When comparing the sizes of Athens and Playa del Carmen, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Athens or Playa del Carmen?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Athens or Playa del Carmen in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Athens as well as Playa del Carmen. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Athens this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Playa del Carmen for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Athens is around the same temperature as Playa del Carmen in the summer. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Playa del Carmen fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Playa del Carmen. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Athens this time of the year. In the summer, Athens often gets more sunshine than Playa del Carmen. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Playa del Carmen receives 223 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Playa del Carmen. Athens usually gets less rain in July than Playa del Carmen. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Playa del Carmen receives 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Playa del Carmen in the Autumn?

Both Playa del Carmen and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Athens for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Playa del Carmen in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Athens is cooler than Playa del Carmen. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Athens in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Playa del Carmen averages at about 26°C (79°F).

It's quite sunny in Playa del Carmen. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Athens. Athens usually receives less sunshine than Playa del Carmen during autumn. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Playa del Carmen receives 233 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Playa del Carmen. In October, Athens usually receives less rain than Playa del Carmen. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Playa del Carmen receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn. June to October in Playa del Carmen is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Athens or Playa del Carmen in the Winter?

Both Playa del Carmen and Athens during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Athens in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Playa del Carmen for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Athens is generally much colder than Playa del Carmen. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 10°C (51°F), and Playa del Carmen fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In Playa del Carmen, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the winter, Athens often gets less sunshine than Playa del Carmen. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Playa del Carmen receives 224 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets more rain in January than Playa del Carmen. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Playa del Carmen receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Playa del Carmen in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Playa del Carmen. Most visitors come to Athens for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Playa del Carmen because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Athens is much colder than Playa del Carmen in the spring. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Playa del Carmen fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Playa del Carmen this time of the year. In Athens, it's very sunny this time of the year. Athens usually receives less sunshine than Playa del Carmen during spring. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Playa del Carmen receives 259 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Athens usually receives more rain than Playa del Carmen. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Playa del Carmen receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Playa del Carmen is June to October.

Typical Weather for Playa del Carmen and Athens